I took a deep breath, the faint scent of his perfume overwhelming me, and I glanced around.
The crowd around us had gathered, whispering in awe.
"Ahhh, you are so lucky."
"That pigeon blood diamond necklace? It’s worth 600 million! How rich—God, please send me someone like that, I don’t care if he’s old or ugly..."
"Ah, this is Marcus, the new business tycoon, the love-struck fool. I heard they’re getting married in two days. Why are they still showing off their love?"
"I swear, they’re laying it on thick. So sweet, though!"
Some people in the crowd even pulled out their phones, starting live broadcasts.
But then, my gaze landed on her.
Vivian.
She was standing in the crowd, dressed in a hospital gown, her eyes searching through the throng.
Her face was pale, a strange smile twisting her lips.
When our eyes met, she casually stroked her belly with one hand, flashing me a look full of challenge and provocation.
I lowered my gaze, the noise around me suddenly feeling too overwhelming.
"I want to go home," I whispered, my heart aching. Back to my world, back to my own space, away from all of this.
Marcus was basking in the crowd's praise, a satisfied smile on his face. "Are you tired, darling? Can I go home with you?"
"No need." I pushed him away, the words coming out colder than I intended.
"Lila, why are you always angry lately?"
He softened his gaze, a helpless look in his eyes, as though he didn’t understand what was happening.
Before I could respond, his assistant appeared with an urgent report.
"Mr. Rivers, the company called again. There’s an urgent matter that needs your attention."
"I handle everything. What use are you?" Marcus snapped at the assistant, his voice rising with frustration.
"Go, do your job. Don’t worry about me," I said, my tone calm, detached.
Marcus frowned, that familiar crease appearing between his brows whenever he was uneasy.
"Lila, please, don’t be angry, okay? The company is just so busy right now..."
"No." I smiled faintly, trying to hide the sting in my chest.
"I really want to go home, Marcus."
His expression shifted, panic flickering in his eyes. He rushed toward me, pulling me into a tight hug. "Lila, I’ve also prepared a surprise for you on our wedding day. You said you wanted to grow old with me..."
I stood there in his arms, my hand patting his back almost mechanically, like I was comforting him. "Well, I have a surprise for you too, Marc."